Harold Lee Dotson

In Loving Memory of Harold Lee Dotson
With heavy hearts, we announce the unexpected passing of Harold Lee Dotson - a beloved father,
amazing grandfather 'papa', true renaissance man, and proud rebel - on March 28, 2025, in
Okeechobee, Florida.
Harold is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years, Sonya Dotson; his three sons Andy (Sara) Dotson,
Phil (Jesslin) Dotson and Brandon Dotson; and his cherished grandchildren Caiden, Connor, Madelyn,
Lia, and Parker. Born on June 29, 1953, in Grundy, Virginia in the heart of Appalachia, Harold grew up steeped in the
values of hard work and resilience. In the mid-1960s, seeking greater opportunities, his parents, Bonnie
and Edward Dotson, moved the family - including siblings James, Sandy, Jan, and Eddie - to
Rochester, New York. There, Harold and his family experienced a vastly different world. While
attending Gates-Chili High School, he met the love of his life, Sonya Nider. After three years of
courtship, they married and built a beautiful life together.
As a father with three young boys, Harold was very involved in his sons' interests and activities. Harold
supported his son Andy's passion for dairy cows and helped him show them at the county fair. For many
years, he served as baseball coach for the boys' summer leagues in Honeoye, New York. He also helped
coach his son Phil's All-Star Baseball Team. For years, he was also a proud Scout Master for the local
Boy Scout troop and presided at the Eagle Scout ceremony for his son Brandon - a milestone he held
dear.
Harold was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. He passed on his love for the
outdoors to his sons when they were growing up. Together they created cherished traditions. As adults,
the 'boys' never missed their annual Thanksgiving deer hunts on the family property.
As a fisherman Harold found joy and tranquility on Honeoye Lake in New York State where he spent
many memorable summers making lifelong memories with loved ones. Somehow, he'd always find
room on his boat for a niece or nephew to join him and his boys. His passion for fishing led him to Lake
Okeechobee in Florida, where Harold and Sonya found respite from western New York's cold grey
winter months.
For the past eight years, Harold and Sonya have been 'snowbirds' migrating back and forth between
Florida in the winter and summers in New York State. No matter where they were Harold and Sonya
created more cherished family traditions with their grandchildren.
Even in retirement, Harold remained active - frequently helping with his son Andy's business, A.
Dotson Excavation and Landscaping LLC. If he wasn't fishing or hunting Harold was tinkering with his
"Toys," finding "stuff" to fix, lending a helping hand and enjoying time outdoors with friends and loved
ones. Whether in the woods, on the water, or in his workshop, Harold lived each day the way he wanted
- to the fullest with intention and joy.
Harold was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Jenna and his beloved sister, Shelia (Jan), and his
parents. In addition to his wife and sons, he is survived by his siblings Sandy (East Rochester, NY),
James (Largo, FL) and Eddie (Rochester, NY).
Harold's legacy is one of generosity, humor, and a deep love for family and friends. He will be dearly
missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A CELEBRATION OF HAROLDS LIFE WILL BE ANNOUNCED AT A LATER TIME.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to a youth fishing and hunting
program - causes close to his heart.
Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at
https://obits.okeechobeeseawinds.com/obituary/harold-dotson